Central

Columbus Bicentennial Park

Central Ohio is anchored by Columbus, the state capital and 15th largest city in the country. The youngest sibling of Ohio’s major cities known as the three C’s (Cleveland and Cincinnati), Columbus has an appropriately young, vibrant feel. It’s a cultural town, a cerebral place where art, numerous universities and the outdoors inspire ingenuity. Just take a walk, pedicab or shared bicycle through the Short North Arts District and you will see what we mean. Entrepreneurs are showcasing their art, jewelry, music and fashions amid boutiques, parks, night spots and hotels.

If you haven’t been here in a while, wake up and smell the coffee! No, really, smell the coffee beans. A coffee trail comprised of local roasters has emerged along with craft breweries and spirits. Chefs are finding their footing in Columbus as well and serving up fresh, locally produced culinary treats that will thrill any palate. Not sure what to try? Check out a food tour or catch a late night bite from a food truck.

From the Arena District, home to the NHL Blue Jackets and AAA MLB Columbus Clippers, concert venues, restaurants and clubs; to German Village’s Schiller Park and the nearby Brewery District – there is plenty to see and do. For a completely different experience, head to the world-famous Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, COSI hands-on science center or the Columbus Museum of Art. And don’t forget about Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew on the city’s north side.

Just minutes outside the city suburbs, visitors find themselves passing farms growing all varieties of fruits and vegetables, lengthy bicycle trails and six lakes and reservoirs for boating, kayaking and fishing. Small towns including the New England-style Granville, Marysville, Marion, Lancaster and Gambier offer plenty of charm along with antiques, soda fountains and local eateries like the famous G&R Tavern in Waldo.